Financial Controller in Stoke-on-Trent

Join a well-established business delivering innovative and award-winning specialist products as they expand their finance team with this newly created Financial Controller position. This role will be a key member of the finance team, responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the business. Based in Woolpit, you will ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, manage the accounting operations, and provide strategic financial guidance to support business growth. You will lead the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Financial Reporting & Analysis: Prepare and present accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with local GAAP (local reporting) and IFRS (group reporting). Provide insightful financial analysis to support strategic decision-making.
• Accounting Operations: Oversee all operational accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, and payroll. Ensure the accuracy and efficiency of accounting processes and systems. Manage the month-end and year-end closing processes. Maintain, develop and enforce internal controls.
• Budgeting & Forecasting: Develop and maintain financial models for forecasting and budgeting. Lead the annual budgeting process and develop accurate financial forecasts. Monitor budget performance and provide regular variance analysis. Collaborate with department heads to develop and manage departmental budgets.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop the operational accounting team. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment. Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback.
• Financial Systems & Process Improvement: Identify, evaluate and enhance key processes, especially where automation would create efficiencies and improve accuracy. Implement and manage financial software and tools. Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the finance department.
• Cash Management: Monitor and manage the company's cash flow. Optimise working capital and ensure adequate liquidity. Manage banking relationships.

Key Attributes:

• Problem solving and analytical skills, confidence to question and challenge.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Demonstrating good commercial acumen.
• Show integrity, tenacity, resilience and adaptability in complex situations and often changing environment; is able to handle pressure and commit to and respect deadlines.
• Demonstrating teamwork and developing cross functional co-operation, ability to build relationships both internally and externally.
• A strong sense of ownership and work ethics.

Experience Required:

• Working towards or qualified ACCA/ACA/CIMA.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS.
• Strong Excel knowledge.
• Proven experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems.

Benefits:

• Company & performance related annual bonus.
• Private medical.
• Life insurance.
• Income protection.
• 25 days annual leave, increasing with service and option to buy an additional 5 days.
• Company pension, up to 8% employer contribution.
• Hybrid working pattern - 3 days in office, 2 days from home.
• Study support.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a commercially minded Accountant looking to take their first step into a Controllership role and support the Finance Director in driving change. To find out more about this opportunity, please contact Stephanie at MacKenzie King on 01473 760460.